TENNISBYMIND- Method, Steps and Means. Part 1.

Before lessons start, all trainees has to be videoed and evaluated in a feedback form for both backhand & forehand shots made from baseline. The next stage is to divide them to groups. Each group of 2-3 trainees. A 3 minuet review explaining the process, principles of methodology and the final goals that has to be achieved after completing it.
Each part is designed for 2 hours.

Part A

We start by explaining the importance of ready position, its biomechanics, the significance of shortening reaction time and the constant need of returning to ready position. Also explaining the subject of human response scheduling, the time that is left for the decision to choose which type of strike (backhand or forehand) has to be chosen, preparation for the strike and its practical implementation. This explanation clarifies not only the physical aspect and the need for concentration of power in an efficient manner during the strike, but also demonstrates efficient movement in terms of time saving.
At this stage the trainees have to memorize the sequenced flow of all the action parts that combines an efficient strike. These actions are formulated in the document ("biomechanics of baseline strike") which is given ahead of practice to be learned at home.
The first lesson is designed to practice the sequence of movements without a ball. Each section in the document has a word "code" (or shortcut) that can be used to help memorizing it better. After the trainee practiced and understood (in terms of movement in space) the meaning of each section, he must perform all of these parts in the order they appear in that document in one motion. Each segment has to be performed physically and accompanied by verbal repetition of the `code` word.
Training sequence should be done slowly at first with eyes closed. The next step should be executed with open eyes. The trainee has to gradually increase the pace until reaching a momentum that simulates a real strong strike energy input. It is crucial that each segment has to be executed while maintaining balance.
Each step of the action must be stopped by the instructor whenever movement is performed not by the rules formulated in the document, also to make sure the trainee understands the reasons for that. In case of repeating the same mistake at the same segment, the trainee must be explained in detail the importance of that point and the meaning of error in terms of strike quality.

The practice is made by one trainee only and watched by his partner. The state of watching is important (at this stage) as much as physical practicing. The viewer has to periodically review the operation of his trainee partner. Thus get involved in training, improving the practical understanding of the relationship between a written document that describes movement and what actually happens in court. This gives the trainee an insight (and ultimately, a practical reference) that significant errors can be noted not only by the instructor, but also by an amateur who is in the beginning stages of tennis. This part spurs adjustment of movement and serious attention to it.

NOTES
Trainees should be asked occasionally about their feelings (not their opinions) towards the practice. What steps will make them connect with this method more easily, (for example - practice with eyes open or closed) and to treat it accordingly, then check for improvement by repeated training. Additional comments should be answered patiently verifying the trainee comprehension. It turns out that the ritual of explanations is received with understanding helping the implementation of a better movement and not impatiently as one might expect. Practice should be made patiently and without time pressure. Even when it seems more lasting than planned, no need to cut it short. This procedure can take half an hour to forty minutes for the first time, at the remaining time the trainee hit single shots, when after each shot the instructor Relates to one fault only in each shot.

All training that follow this lesson, should begin by carrying out a mental practice.